BURY has been playing its part in promoting international friendships and understanding between nations and cultures.

The borough welcomed 15 Costa Rican visitors last week, who had the chance to explore the rich heritage and traditions of the town during a day’s excursion, including a trip to the Robert Peel statue, Whitehead Gardens, Kay Gardens, Bury Parish Church, the Fusilier Museum, East Lancashire Railway, and more.

The group, from the small city of Turrialba, enjoyed tea in the Mayor’s parlour as well as tasting Bury’s black pudding during their visit last Tuesday. Their visit was part of a longer trip, organised by Friendship Force International, during which they stayed with host families in south Manchester.

Sue Hyland, a member of the Greater Manchester group who lives in Tottington, said: “To get to know a country, you really must see it through local eyes, and that is exactly what this group did.

“It is about sharing cultures and lifestyles, and learning about each other’s way of life.”